Cleaning apparatus and cleaning system

ABSTRACT

The invention relates to a cleaning apparatus. The cleaning apparatus includes at least one cleaning tool for cleaning an object to be cleaned, an operating unit for a user, which includes at least one operating element for operating the cleaning apparatus, a control unit for processing operating instructions, a receptacle, arranged on the operating unit, for an external accessory that can be associated with the cleaning apparatus and that has a display device with an image display, wherein the accessory is removably positionable in the receptacle in a defined position, as well as a communication unit by way of which display information for being displayed on the image display are transmittable from the cleaning apparatus to the accessory positioned in the receptacle. The invention also relates to a cleaning system.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation application of international application number PCT/EP2019/069327, filed Jul. 18, 2019, and claims the benefit of German application number 10 2018 117 670.8, filed Jul. 20, 2018, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety and for all purposes.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a cleaning apparatus, comprising at least one cleaning tool for cleaning an object to be cleaned, an operating unit for a user, which comprises at least one operating element for operating the cleaning apparatus, and a control unit for processing operating instructions.

The invention also relates to a cleaning system with a cleaning apparatus.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

With a cleaning apparatus of the kind mentioned at the outset, operating instructions of a user can be forwarded from the operating unit to the control unit and be processed by the same. In dependence thereon, the control unit can control at least one functional unit of the cleaning apparatus, for example operating parameters for the at least one cleaning tool can be set. Other examples for functional units are a drive device of a chassis in the case of a movable cleaning apparatus, a pressurization device for placing a working fluid (liquid and/or gaseous) of the cleaning apparatus under over- or underpressure, for example a suction assembly or a pump assembly for high-pressure applications. A further example of a functional unit is a dosing device, for example for dosing a cleaning liquid or for admixing a cleaning chemical to a cleaning liquid. It is also conceivable for the operating unit to be a functional unit, by way of the operating elements of which the user acts on the functional unit.

WO 2011/006843 A1 describes a cleaning apparatus for the operation of which an authorization means with an access authorization stored thereon is required. The access authorization can be contactlessly detected and checked for validity by a control unit of the cleaning apparatus.

In WO 2012/016847 A1 it is described that a cleaning apparatus can be operated with authorization means that differ with respect to authorization profiles, which are linked to a respective access authorization. Different functional scopes can be provided to the user of the cleaning apparatus in dependence on the respective authorization profile. The authorization means comprise identification devices with identifications, wherein identifications associated with different authorization profiles differ from one another.

A further cleaning apparatus for the operation of which an access authorization stored on an authorization means is required is described in WO 2012/013575 A1.

An object underlying the present invention is to provide a cleaning apparatus and a cleaning system with better handling.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In a first aspect of the invention, a cleaning apparatus comprises at least one cleaning tool for cleaning an object to be cleaned, an operating unit for a user, which comprises at least one operating element for operating the cleaning apparatus, a control unit for processing operating instructions, a receptacle, arranged on the operating unit, for an external accessory that can be associated with the cleaning apparatus and that has a display device with an image display, wherein the accessory is removably positionable in the receptacle in a defined position, as well as a communication unit by way of which display information for being displayed on the image display are transmittable from the cleaning apparatus to the accessory positioned in the receptacle.

In a second aspect of the invention, a cleaning system comprises a cleaning apparatus in accordance with the first aspect of the invention and at least one accessory that has a display device with an image display, the accessory being removably positionable in the receptacle, wherein display information for being displayed on the image display is transmittable to the accessory positioned in the receptacle.

In a third aspect of the invention, a cleaning system comprises a cleaning apparatus in accordance with the first aspect of the invention or a cleaning system in accordance with the second aspect of the invention and at least one authentication device by way of which an access authorization is providable to the cleaning apparatus.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing summary and the following description may be better understood in conjunction with the drawing figures, of which:

FIG. 1 shows a schematic depiction of a cleaning system in accordance with the invention with a cleaning apparatus in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 2 shows a perspective depiction of an operating unit of the cleaning apparatus from FIG. 1 and an accessory arrangable thereon;

FIG. 3 shows a plan view of the operating unit and the accessory;

FIG. 3a shows a plan view of the operating unit and the accessory in a variant, in accordance with the invention, of the cleaning apparatus (detail view);

FIG. 4 shows a partial depiction of the operating unit and the accessory in a side view along line 4-4 in FIG. 3;

FIGS. 5 to 7 show schematically the accessory in a receptacle in different pivotal positions and a user viewing the accessory;

FIG. 8 shows a depiction corresponding to FIG. 3 in a further preferred embodiment of the cleaning apparatus and an accessory arranged in two orientations in the receptacle;

FIG. 9 shows a depiction corresponding to FIG. 8 with a different accessory;

FIG. 10 shows a partial view of an operating unit of a cleaning apparatus in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 11 shows a partial view of an operating unit of a further cleaning apparatus in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 12 shows a partial view of an operating unit of a further cleaning apparatus in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 13 shows a schematic depiction of a further preferred embodiment of a cleaning system in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 14 shows a schematic depiction of a further preferred embodiment of a cleaning system in accordance with the invention; and

FIG. 15 shows a schematic depiction of a further preferred embodiment of a cleaning system in accordance with the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

Although the invention is illustrated and described herein with reference to specific embodiments, the invention is not intended to be limited to the details shown. Rather, various modifications may be made in the details within the scope and range of equivalents of the claims and without departing from the invention.

The present invention relates to a cleaning apparatus comprising at least one cleaning tool for cleaning an object to be cleaned, an operating unit for a user, which comprises at least one operating element for operating the cleaning apparatus, a control unit for processing operating instructions, a receptacle, arranged on the operating unit, for an external accessory that can be associated with the cleaning apparatus and that has a display device with an image display, wherein the accessory is removably positionable in the receptacle in a defined position, as well as a communication unit by way of which display information for being displayed on the image display are transmittable from the cleaning apparatus to the accessory positioned in the receptacle.

In the cleaning apparatus in accordance with the invention, it is possible to display information about the state and/or the operation in the image display of the external accessory. For this purpose, display information defining the image content can be transmitted from the communication unit to the accessory. The communication unit may be in operative connection with the control unit, be formed thereby, or be integrated therein. So that the image display can be easily seen by the user, the cleaning apparatus comprises a receptacle for the accessory, arranged on the operating unit, in which the accessory can be removably arranged. It is thereby possible, in particular, to position the accessory in a defined manner, in particular in the viewing direction of the user during the intended use of the cleaning apparatus, in which said user, for example, interacts with operating elements of the operating unit. By way of the defined position of the accessory in the receptacle, it is preferably simultaneously ensured that a reliable transmission of display information from the communication unit to the accessory is securely provided.

By means of the present invention, it is possible, for example, for display devices of accessories in the possession of the users to be able to be used, for example smartphones and/or tablet computers, which the users would carry with them anyway when working with the cleaning apparatus. If necessary, communicative connections establishable with the accessory can preferably be used by way of a communication network. A portion of the operating unit of the cleaning apparatus can be exported, so to speak, and is carried by the users. This is advantageous, for example, if information regarding or about the operation of the cleaning apparatus is saved on the accessory or is provided thereby. As a result, for example, the work of the user with different cleaning apparatuses, even of the identical kind, is made easier. Moreover, it is possible to, at least partially, save a display device in the cleaning apparatus or to configure said display device in a relatively inexpensive manner. This prevents, for example, cost-intensive maintenance and reconstruction in order to keep the presentation of information up to date or to update it.

Unless anything to the contrary is stated in the following, it is to be assumed that the accessory is positioned in the receptacle.

The accessory is preferably an accessory in flat design, the extent of which in one spatial direction is significantly smaller than the respective extent in the two other spatial directions. An image plane defined by the display device is preferably parallel to a plane defined by the receptacle, for example the abutment plane mentioned below.

Provision may be made for the accessory to be positionable with the image display in landscape format and/or in portrait format.

In the cleaning apparatus in accordance with the invention, an electronic interface via the communication unit to the accessory is present. Additionally, by way of the receptacle, a mechanical interface to the accessory is present.

It is favorable if the receptacle comprises or forms at least one abutment element against which the accessory abuts. A defined position of the accessory in relation to the cleaning apparatus in at least one spatial direction can thereby be ensured. Favorably, at least one bearing element is present, on which the accessory bears.

The abutment element or bearing element is, in particular, of flat and/or planar configuration. As a result, a largest possible contact surface with the accessory can be provided.

It is favorable if the receptacle comprises or forms a shoulder for abutting against and, in particular, bearing the accessory. The shoulder may be formed, for example, by a projecting bar, rib, or edge of the receptacle. By way of the shoulder, it is possible for the accessory to be oriented relative to the operating unit in two spatial directions, whereby the accessory can adopt a particularly well defined position.

The receptacle, in particular the abutment element or bearing element for the accessory, preferably defines an abutment plane. The abutment plane preferably encloses an angle with the horizontal of about 0° to 90°, preferably about 30° to 60°, and further preferably about 45°. In this way, for example, in the case of an accessory in flat design, a surface normal of the image display can be oriented approximately vertically to approximately horizontally, preferably about at an angle of 45° to the horizontal. In advantageous implementations of the cleaning apparatus, it has been shown that the content of the image display can thereby be seen and read particularly well by the user.

Indications of position, orientation and alignment like e.g. “horizontal”, “vertical”, “at the top”, “at the bottom” or the like are presently to be interpreted in relation to an intended use of the cleaning apparatus. The cleaning apparatus can thereby be positioned, in particular, on a placement surface presently taken to be oriented horizontally. The “horizontal” of the last mentioned advantageous embodiment may thus be a reference plane in parallel to a contact plane of the cleaning apparatus with the placement surface.

The receptacle is preferably arranged or arrangable on the operating unit in such a way that the image display of the accessory positioned in the receptacle defines an image plane substantially perpendicular to the viewing direction of the user.

A surface normal of an abutment plane defined by the receptacle, in particular of the abutment element for the accessory, is favorably oriented in a vertical plane.

The receptacle preferably comprises at least one frictional coefficient-increasing element against which the accessory is able to abut, or such a frictional coefficient-increasing element is arranged an the receptacle. As a result, an increased frictional force of the accessory on the receptacle can be increased. This secures the position of the accessory in the receptacle even during the operation of the cleaning apparatus, which is associated with vibrations, for example. The frictional coefficient-increasing element is configured, for example, to be flat, e.g. as a mat or the like. Alternatively, it is conceivable for a plurality of discrete frictional coefficient-increasing elements to be provided, for example nubs. The frictional coefficient-increasing element is preferably made of an elastically deformable material.

It is advantageous if the receptacle is movable relative to the operating unit for changing a viewing angle of the user on the image display. This enables a user-friendly and versatile configuration of the cleaning apparatus. For adapting to the height of the user, his/her location relative to the cleaning apparatus, and/or his/her viewing direction, the position of the receptacle on the operating unit can advantageously be varied. The receptacle is favorably pivotable relative to the operating unit, in particular about a horizontal axis. The horizontal axis extends e.g. in a transverse direction of the cleaning apparatus. The adjustment of the receptacle relative to the operating unit may be of continuous or discrete configuration. The receptacle may favorably be set such that the user can look substantially perpendicularly at the image plane of the image display.

It is favorable if the receptacle is adjustable over an angular range of at least about 45°, preferably of about 90°. For example, the abutment plane of the receptacle can be changed from an approximately horizontal to an approximately vertical orientation.

Provision may be made for the cleaning apparatus to comprise a housing that, in relation to a longitudinal direction of the cleaning apparatus, is arranged in front of the operating unit. A housing of that kind may be used e.g. in a cleaning apparatus configured as a scrubber-dryer machine, sweeping machine, or suction sweeping machine.

The housing may have a movable housing part arranged in front of the operating unit, which housing part is pivotable from a closed position in the direction of the operating unit into an open position and vice versa. The housing part is e.g. a lid of a tank of the cleaning apparatus for cleaning liquid.

It is favorable if the housing part in the open position is free of contact with the receptacle and/or free of contact with the accessory positioned in the receptacle. This ensures that the position of the accessory in the receptacle is not negatively affected when opening the housing part. An abutment element for the housing part may preferably be provided on the cleaning apparatus, for example on the operating unit, against which abutment element the housing part strikes in the open position.

The operating unit preferably comprises a gripping device for the user with two gripping elements arranged at a distance from one another. In this way, the user can reliably guide the cleaning apparatus, for example when configured as a walk-behind apparatus or as a ride-on apparatus.

It proves to be advantageous if the gripping elements define a gripping plane and if an abutment plane defined by the receptacle defines an angle of less than about 20° with the gripping plane, preferably if the abutment plane extends in parallel or substantially parallel to the gripping plane. It has been shown that a user-friendly operation is possible in this way. For example, the accessory may be positioned such that the image plane of the image display is in parallel or substantially parallel to the abutment plane. The angle between the image plane and the gripping plane is preferably less than 20° and more preferably parallel or substantially parallel to the gripping plane. Is has been shown that the image content can be reliably seen by the user in this way.

In a preferred embodiment, the receptacle is arranged on the operating unit offset in a direction away from the user relative to the gripping elements. In the intended operation of the cleaning apparatus, the accessory can in this way be further away from the user than the gripping elements. The accessory is, in a way, arranged lower, offset relative to the gripping elements.

When interacting with the operating unit, the likelihood is thereby reduced that the user accidentally comes into contact with the accessory, the positioning thereof in the receptacle thereby being ensured. The gripping elements are, conversely, preferably offset in the direction of the user in relation to the receptacle and preferably the accessory.

The offset of the receptacle may be e.g. about 5 cm to 20 cm, preferably about 10 cm to 15 cm.

It proves to be advantageous if the receptacle, in relation to a transverse direction of the cleaning apparatus, is arranged between the gripping elements, in a viewing direction of the user toward the image display of the accessory arranged in the receptacle. In the transverse direction, the image display is thereby positioned between the gripping elements, such that the image display and the hands can be within the field of view of the user and can be seen by the user together and in a simple manner. This makes it possible for the user to operate the cleaning apparatus in a handling-friendly, intuitive manner with a natural, upright posture and head position. As explained above, provision may be made for the accessory to be arranged offset relative to the gripping elements, in particular with an offset away from the user.

An operating element for acting on a chassis of the cleaning apparatus is favorably arranged laterally next to a respective gripping element, and the receptacle, in relation to the transverse direction, is advantageously arranged between the operating elements. In this way, the user can easily see the operating elements for actuating the same and the image display for accepting information displayed thereon, located within the field of view of said user. This makes it easier for the user to operate the cleaning apparatus.

In an advantageous implementation of the cleaning apparatus, it is favorable if the gripping elements are configured as longitudinal gripping elements and the receptacle, when the hands of the user are placed with the thenar eminence against the gripping elements, is arranged substantially in a region between the bases of thumbs and the distal ends of the thumbs. The image display and the hands, preferably together with the aforementioned operating elements, are thereby located within a strip-shaped visible region extending in the transverse direction, thus facilitating the operation of the cleaning apparatus.

It is advantageous if the operating unit comprises at least one operating element that is arranged in front of the user in relation to the receptacle and preferably is arranged on the operating unit below said receptacle. The operating element, in particular a main operating element of the cleaning apparatus, can thereby be easily reached and actuated by the user without having to reach over or past the accessory arranged in the receptacle.

The operating element is e.g. a program selector switch for setting a cleaning program of the cleaning apparatus and preferably comprises a rotary grip or is configured as such. The positioning in front of a preferably below the receptacle enables a user-friendly actuation of the rotary grip.

In an advantageous implementation of the cleaning apparatus, provision may be made for the operating unit to comprise an operating field defining an operating plane, on which operating field at least one operating element is arranged, for example the aforementioned program selector switch. The operating plane is advantageously arranged in front of the receptacle in relation to the user. It proves to be advantageous if the operating plane is oriented at an angle to an abutment plane defined by the receptacle, wherein the angle may be e.g. about 10° to 30°. That angle is presently understood to be the smaller of the two angles between the operating plane and the abutment plane.

It is favorable if the receptacle for the arrangement of accessories is configured having at least one of the following in order to place a multitude of different accessories in the receptacle where possible:

-   -   accessories having a width of at least about 15 cm, preferably         up to about 25 cm;     -   accessories having a diagonal of the image display up to at         least about 10 inches.

The operating unit is preferably arranged, in relation to a longitudinal direction of the cleaning apparatus, on the rear side thereof, for example in the case of a walk-behind apparatus like a scrubber vacuum.

The cleaning apparatus preferably comprises a charging device for providing electrical energy for the accessory, wherein the accessory is able to be applied with electrical energy when arranged in the receptacle. This makes it possible to increase operating time of the accessory, preferably independently of the use with the cleaning apparatus, in which display information are transmitted to the accessory by way of the communication unit to the accessory.

In a preferred embodiment, the charging device is an inductive charging device for contactlessly acting upon the accessory. For example, the charging device is arranged on the side of the receptacle facing away from the accessory. The accessory can be charged through the abutment element of the receptacle.

Provision may be made for the charging device to comprise at least one electrical connecting element fixedly arranged on the receptacle, which connecting element couples to a corresponding electrical connecting element of the accessory. For example, the connecting element is configured in the form of a docking connector.

Provision may advantageously be made for the charging device to comprise a connector socket (for example a USB socket) for connecting a charging cable for the accessory.

In a similar manner, provision may preferably be made for the charging device to comprise a charging cable with a connecting element for connecting to an electrical connecting element of the accessory.

In a preferred embodiment of the cleaning apparatus, it is favorable if the cleaning apparatus comprises an integrated display device, arranged on the operating unit, for displaying status information, wherein the display device preferably comprises an image display. For example, the display device is used when no accessory is arranged on the receptacle. It can thereby be ensured that information is provided visually to the user in order to make the operation of the cleaning apparatus easier, even without an accessory. Alternatively, provision may be made for the integrated display device to be able to be used in combination with the image display of the accessory.

Provision may be made for the display device to be at least partially and in particular completely covered by the accessory when the same is arranged in the receptacle. For example, a display device of that kind is only used when no accessory is positioned in the receptacle.

Provision may be made for the display device to be switched off when the accessory is arranged in the receptacle and to be activatable or activated when the accessory is removed from the receptacle. This can preferably take place without intervention by the user.

Provision may be made for no (further) display device to be arranged on the operating unit, aside from that of the accessory.

In a preferred embodiment of the cleaning apparatus, the communication unit is configured to contactlessly transmit display information to the accessory. For example, the display information is transmitted by way of a radio connection, in particular a Bluetooth connection. “Contactless” presently includes the possibility that the accessory is physically in contact with the receptacle. Merely the display information, the data for controlling the image display, are transmitted without contact.

Alternatively or in addition, provision may be made for the communication unit to be configured to transmit display information in a contact-based manner, for example by way of a wired connection.

Provision is favorably made for the communication unit to be automatically activated to transmit the display information when the accessory is positioned in the receptacle. This makes it easier for the user to handle the cleaning apparatus. The presence of the accessory may be mechanically and/or electrically detectable. For example, a microswitch or a sensor element is provided, which is actuated when the accessory is positioned in the receptacle. Alternatively or in addition, a wireless coupling of the accessory, in particular to the communication unit can be detected and the image display thereby activated.

In a corresponding manner, provision may be made for the communication unit to be automatically deactivated upon removal of the accessory from the receptacle.

Provision may be made for display information relating to at least one of the following to be transmittable to the accessory:

information relating to the use of at least one cleaning tool, for example the usage time, usage type, and/or wear thereto;

-   -   information relating to the consumption, the supply, or the         state of at least one consumable component used for the         operation, for example electrical energy, a cleaning liquid,         and/or a cleaning chemical. In particular, the information may         relate to the state of at least one battery, the         amount/remaining amount of cleaning liquid, the amount/remaining         amount of a cleaning chemical, the fill level of at least one         container for cleaning liquid or dirty liquid, and/or the state         of at least one cleaning tool;     -   information relating to the elapsed usage time and/or the         remaining usage time of the cleaning apparatus;     -   information relating to the preceding usage type, for example         the usage location, the completed or foregone execution of a         cleaning task and/or the remaining usage type of the cleaning         apparatus;     -   instructions for the user for assisting in cleaning, in         particular for cleaning tasks and/or for the optimization of the         remaining usage. For example, the user can be informed of         remaining cleaning tasks and preferably be assisted in the         completion thereof.

It is favorable if status and/or operational information relating to the operation of the cleaning apparatus is transmittable by the communication unit to the accessory for storage and/or forwarding to an external data processing device. Display information for creating the image contents in the image display may differ from the status and/or operational information or coincide entirely or partially therewith. In the present embodiment, the operation of the cleaning apparatus can be monitored, wherein a report on the usage thereof can be created. For example, the report may be evaluated with a view to an improvement of the use of the cleaning apparatus and/or of the coordination of users and/or a plurality of cleaning apparatus of a cleaning fleet. The report can be saved in the accessory. Alternatively or in addition, provision may be made for the report to be transmitted for evaluation and/or archiving via a communicative connection to a spatially remotely arranged data processing device. The data processing device is, for example, in the possession of or under management of a manufacturer or a user of the cleaning apparatus.

For example, it can be tracked which user or which group of users is using a particular cleaning apparatus. For this purpose, it has proven to be advantageous if the cleaning apparatus is used in conjunction with an access authorization, still to be described in the following, and/or a user profile or an authorization profile.

With the use of an external data processing device, it is conceivable, in particular, for cleaning tasks to be created and assigned to a plurality of users and/or cleaning apparatuses by way of said data processing device. Corresponding cleaning tasks may, for example, be transmitted to the accessory or, alternatively or in addition, to the cleaning apparatus. The cleaning tasks can be constituted differently in dependence on with which access authorization, which user profile, and/or which authorization profile a cleaning apparatus is used.

The display information and/or the status and/or operating information are preferably transmittable in real time from the communication unit to the accessory.

Provision may be made for the cleaning apparatus to be operable without a separate authentication device. For example, the cleaning apparatus can be put into operation by any user. A main switch is preferably provided on the cleaning apparatus or on the accessory for switching on and switching off the cleaning apparatus.

Alternatively, provision may be made for an authentication device to be required for operating the cleaning apparatus. The authentication device may be configured in a variety of ways. For example, an object-dependent authentication may be provided, an authorization means being associated with the cleaning apparatus as such, for example in the form of a mechanical or electronic key. Alternatively or in addition, a person-dependent authentication device may be provided, the identity of the user being checked for use with the cleaning apparatus. It is hereby possible, in particular, to give a user access to selected cleaning apparatuses if there are a plurality of cleaning apparatuses. The person-dependent authentication is possible e.g. using biometric characteristics of the user, for example checking a fingerprint, facial recognition, iris recognition etc.

Provision may be made for an emergency cleaning operation to be performable with the cleaning apparatus in the absence of an authentication device or a valid authentication. For example, the use of at least one selected predetermined function of the cleaning apparatus is possible if no authentication device is present or if the authentication required therewith fails.

In a preferred embodiment, in order to prevent unauthorized access to the cleaning apparatus, said cleaning apparatus is associated with at least one authentication device by means of which an access authorization required for the operation of the cleaning apparatus is providable thereto. The access authorization can be checked for validity, for example by the control unit, the accessory, or an external data processing device. Only then can the cleaning apparatus be used to a predetermined or predeterminable extent, the aforementioned emergency cleaning operation notwithstanding.

The transmission of the access authorization to the cleaning apparatus may, in the present case, be equivalent to the cleaning apparatus receiving unlocking information indicating that a user may put the cleaning apparatus into operation, in dependence on an existing access authorization.

The access authorization may be constituted in a variety of ways. For example, it may consist in a password, a code, an alphanumeric character string, a biometric characteristic of the user, a physical property of an authorization means like, for example, a profiling with raised portions and/or recessed portions etc.

In a preferred embodiment, the access authorization of the cleaning apparatus is transmittable contactlessly, in particular to the communication unit. This enables a user-friendly interaction with the cleaning apparatus. “Contactless” presently does not exclude that the authentication device, for example an authorization means thereof, has a physical contact with the cleaning apparatus. The contactless transmission takes place e.g. by radio, for example by way of an existing Bluetooth connection of the accessory with the communication unit, by way of an RFID connection, an NFC connection, for example optically or by means of a magnetic or electrical field effect.

Alternatively, provision may be made for the access authorization of the cleaning apparatus to be transmittable in a contact-based manner. In particular, the access authorization can be physically sensed, for example when using a mechanical key that is arranged in a corresponding receptacle of the cleaning apparatus.

It is advantageous if the cleaning apparatus comprises a receptacle in which the authentication device is releasably arrangable. The receptacle is favorably arranged on the operating unit. The authentication device has a defined position in the receptacle, the access authorization being able to be reliably transmitted to the cleaning apparatus or sensed thereby in a contactless or contact-based manner. The authentication device may be fixable in the receptacle, for example by means of force fit and/or positive engagement, in particular clampingly and/or latchingly. The presence of the authentication device can preferably be automatically detected. For example, a sensor element that can cooperate with the authentication device in a contactless or contact-based manner may be provided for this purpose. The receptacle, when the accessory is used as an authentication device, may in particular be the receptacle on the operating unit associated with said accessory.

In a preferred embodiment, provision is made for the access authorization to be saved on the authentication device in a storage unit. The access authorization can be read from the storage unit and can preferably be transmitted contactlessly to the cleaning apparatus.

Alternatively or in addition, provision may be made for the access authorization to be physically stored on the authentication device, for example in the form of the aforementioned profiling with raised portions and/or recessed portions.

In a preferred embodiment, the access authorization may preferably be inputtable by the user on the authentication device by means of an input device and be transmittable to the cleaning apparatus, in particular to the communication unit. For example, an input device of the accessory, in particular a touchscreen, is used to input the access authorization. Said access authorization can, for example, be checked for validity by the accessory, by the control unit, or an external data processing device.

It is favorable if the accessory comprises or forms an authentication device. This makes it possible, in particular, to use an accessory that users carry with them like, for example, a smartphone or a tablet computer not only for providing the image display, but also for unlocking the cleaning apparatus.

Alternatively or in addition, provision may be made for an authorization means formed separate from the accessory to comprise or form an authentication device. For example, an electronic or mechanical key may be used as an authorization means.

The authorization means may be configured e.g. as a transponder in which the access authorization is saved. The access authorization is preferably transmitted to the cleaning apparatus wirelessly, for example by means of RFID technology.

Provision may be made for an authorization means, as described above, formed separate from the accessory to be used when using the authentication via said accessory.

It is favorable if a user profile is provided. This enables an individualization of the cleaning apparatus in which, for example, presettings of the cleaning apparatus and/or the accessory can be performed in dependence on the user profile. The user profile is, for example, defined by a user account that can be created and managed by an overseer or an administrator of at least one cleaning apparatus.

It is favorable if an authorization profile is provided, wherein two or more different authorization profiles are provided, wherein different functional scopes are providable to a user by the cleaning apparatus in dependence on the authorization profile. This makes it possible to completely or partially limit or unlock the use of the cleaning apparatus in dependence on the respective authorization profile. Alternatively or in addition, the scope of interaction with the cleaning apparatus that is usable on the accessory can preferably be limitable or unlockable, for example the scope of the user application program discussed in the following.

A common authorization profile may be assigned to a plurality of users. For example, an authorization profile for users with a normal amount of experience may be created, an authorization profile for experienced users, an authorization profile for overseers, and an authorization profile for administrators or service personnel. By limiting the functional scope in dependence on the authorization profile, in particular the operational safety of the cleaning apparatus can be increased. For example, the authorization profile allows only a usage within the scope of the knowledge of the user and/or of the cleaning tasks assigned to him/her. This preferably makes it possible to prevent damage to the cleaning apparatus, to the object to be cleaned, and/or personal injury as a result of misuse.

An authentication device linked to an authorization profile favorably has an identification device with an identification, wherein the identifications of different authorization profiles differ from one another. This enables an identification of the authentication devices on the level of the authorization profile, as is explained in the publications WO 2012/016847 A1 and WO 2012/013575 A1 stated at the outset.

Authorization levels may in particular be tiered hierarchically, wherein a higher order authorization level makes it possible to use the cleaning apparatus in a functional scope of a lower order authorization profile and to additionally perform at least one further function of the cleaning apparatus.

Provision may favorably be made for the user profile and/or the authorization profile to be associated with the access authorization. For example, a user profile is linked to the identity of the user. In addition, an authorization profile associated with the user or only with the access authorization may be provided.

Provision may be made, for example, for the authorization profile to not be linked to the user profile. For example, the cleaning apparatus can be put into operation by way of an authentication device. The user can also log in on the cleaning apparatus with a user profile, for example by way of the accessory.

Provision may be made for the user profile and/or the authorization profile to be

-   -   stored or saved in or on the authentication device;     -   saved in a storage unit of the cleaning apparatus;     -   saved in a storage unit of a data processing device arranged         externally to the cleaning apparatus. In this case, a data         connection to the data processing device can be established e.g.         by means of the authentication device and/or the cleaning         apparatus. This enables, in particular, reading out the user         profile and/or the authorization profile and directly or         indirectly transmitting the same to the cleaning apparatus, for         example in order to set the functional scope thereof as well as         to perform any presettings. For example, the user logs in on the         data processing device by way of the authentication device, in         particular the accessory, whereupon the access authorization or         a corresponding unlocking information together with the user         profile and/or an authorization profile is transmitted to the         cleaning apparatus.

In particular, provision may be made for display information with corresponding image contents to be providable to the image display in dependence on the user profile. For example, by way of the user profile, the user can influence the manner in which the display contents are displayed and/or influence a display language.

Alternatively or in addition, preferably a presetting of at least one functional unit of the cleaning apparatus can be performed in dependence on the user profile, in particular an operating parameter of at least one cleaning tool can be set. For example, operating parameters of the functional unit that are typically used by the user can be saved by way of the user profile and be preset in dependence thereon.

In dependence on the authorization profile, provision may be made, for example, for access authorizations, user profiles, and/or authorization profiles to be able to be created or deleted. For example, performing such functions is reserved for overseers or administrators.

In dependence on the authorization profile, provision is made, for example, for an adaptation of user profiles and/or authorization profiles to be able to be carried out. For example, an unlocking of a functional unit of the cleaning apparatus for use can be granted or revoked. Alternatively or in addition, for example a presetting of at least one functional unit of the cleaning apparatus can be performed. For example, presettings for the cleaning apparatus with a higher order authorization can be performed, or limits for operating parameters of at least one functional unit can be defined. It is possible that certain operating parameters of a functional unit can also be changed with a lower order authorization, whereas a change to certain operating parameters is only possible with a higher order authorization.

Depending on the authorization profile, it may be possible, for example, to create a report on the usage of the cleaning apparatus. This possibility exists, for example, only with a higher order authorization profile. The report can preferably be transmitted to an external data processing device for evaluation and/or archiving.

In dependence on the authorization profile, provision may be made regarding the extent to which the usage data of the cleaning apparatus can be evaluated. For example, the evaluation is only possible with a higher order authorization profile and is not possible for users with a lower order authorization profile.

The cleaning apparatus may be configured in a variety of ways and, associated therewith, the makeup of the at least one cleaning tool or cleaning assembly. The functional units of the cleaning apparatus mentioned at the outset may be made up in a variety of ways.

For example, the cleaning apparatus is a floor cleaning apparatus, in particular a scrubber vacuum, a sweeping machine, or a suction sweeping machine.

The cleaning apparatus may be a hand-guided cleaning apparatus or a ride-on or stand-on cleaning apparatus.

It is conceivable for the cleaning apparatus to be configured to be self-propelled and self-steering in order to be able to perform an autonomous cleaning of the floor surface in the absence of the user.

The cleaning apparatus may be a cleaning apparatus that cleans with a cleaning jet, in particular a high-pressure cleaning appliance or a dry ice blasting appliance.

As mentioned at the outset, the present invention also relates to a cleaning system. A cleaning system in accordance with the invention, which achieves the object stated at the outset, comprises a cleaning apparatus of the kind stated above and at least one accessory that has a display device with an image display and is removably positionable in the receptacle, wherein display information for being displayed on the image display is transmittable to the accessory positioned in the receptacle.

The advantages which were already mentioned in conjunction with the description of the cleaning apparatus in accordance with the invention can also be achieved with the cleaning system. Reference is made to the preceding remarks in this regard.

Advantageous embodiments of the cleaning system result from advantageous embodiments of the cleaning apparatus.

The accessory is e.g. a smartphone or a tablet computer.

It is favorable if the accessory comprises a touch-sensitive display device for accepting operating instructions of the user, in particular a touchscreen.

A user application program is preferably executably saved on the accessory, for example a so-called “App”. Operating instructions for the cleaning apparatus are favorably providable by the user by way of the user application program, which instructions are transmittable from the accessory to the communication unit. It is thereby possible for the user to use the accessory not only for the display of image contents on the image display, but also for inputting operating instructions by way of an input device, in particular the aforementioned touchscreen.

The operating instructions advantageously comprise settings of at least one operating parameter of a functional unit of the cleaning apparatus. Alternatively or in addition, the operating instructions may comprise, for example, the creating and/or changing of access authorizations, user profiles, and/or authorization profiles for users, and/or the creating of reports on the usage of the cleaning apparatus.

It is understood that the input of an access authorization by way of the input device of the accessory can presently be interpreted as an operating instruction.

It is favorable if by way of the user application program, at least one digital operating element is providable on the display device for accepting operating instructions, which operating element is preferably configured identically or corresponding to a functionally identical physical operating element of the operating unit. In this way, physical operating elements can be recreated or duplicated, as it were. This makes it possible for the user using the accessory to operate the cleaning apparatus in an intuitive manner, wherein learned operating patterns or hand grips can be applied with the accessory. Moreover, the versatility is increased by the user being able to select the manner of interaction with the cleaning apparatus that is most comfortable to him/her.

Provision may be made for at least one digital operating element to be providable on the display device for accepting operating instructions, the operating unit comprising no corresponding physical functionally identical operating element. Instead of a conventional operating element, now an operating element on the accessory in digital form is used. This enables a “streamlining”, so to speak, of the cleaning apparatus, wherein a user can, at least in part, carry the operating unit with him/her, as it were, for example in the form of the smartphone or the tablet computer.

A communicative connection to an externally arranged data processing device can advantageously be established by way of the accessory and/or the communication unit. This makes it possible, for example, to forward reports on the usage of the cleaning apparatus and/or a transmission of information regarding the access authorization, the user profile, and/or the authorization profile.

The cleaning system preferably comprises a data processing device arranged externally to the cleaning apparatus and to the accessory. “Data processing device” presently includes the case that a plurality of data processing devices in communicative connection with one another may be present, for example implemented as a “Cloud”.

The cleaning system may comprise a plurality of cleaning apparatuses and a plurality of accessories. The cleaning apparatuses and/or the accessories may each be of identical or different configuration.

The present invention also relates to a cleaning system with an authentication device.

A cleaning system in accordance with the invention comprises a cleaning apparatus of the aforementioned kind or a cleaning system of the aforementioned kind and at least one authentication device by way of which an access authorization is providable to the cleaning apparatus.

Reference is made to the above statements regarding the advantages achievable herewith and preferred embodiments.

FIG. 1 shows an advantageous embodiment of a cleaning system in accordance with the invention, attributed as a whole with the reference numeral 10. The cleaning system 10 comprises at least one preferred embodiment of a cleaning apparatus in accordance with the invention, attributed with the reference numeral 12. Advantageously, further cleaning apparatuses 12 are provided, depicted schematically, which may differ from the cleaning apparatus 12 with regard to type and/or configuration.

The cleaning system 10 further comprises at least one authentication device 14. Here, presently four authentication devices 14 are depicted. The authentication devices 14 are configured for use with the cleaning apparatus 12.

The same applies to at least one accessory 16 of the cleaning system 10, which may be used together with the cleaning apparatus 12. For example, two accessories 16 are depicted, namely one as a smartphone 18 and the other as a tablet computer 20.

The cleaning system 10 comprises a spatially remote data processing device 22 that is arranged externally to the cleaning apparatus 12 and the accessories 16. In the present case, only one data processing device 22 is depicted. It is understood that the cleaning system 10 may comprise a plurality of data processing devices 22 that are in communicative connection with one another. This is presently depicted by a “Cloud” 24.

The accessories 16 may be in a communicative connection with the data processing device 22, for example by way of a cellular network and/or a data network like the internet. Further, provision may be made for the cleaning apparatus 12 to also be able to establish a communicative connection for exchanging data with the data processing device 22. For this purpose, the data processing device 22 presently comprises a communication unit 26 (FIG. 2). The communication unit 26 is, for example, integrated into, formed by, or in operative connection with a control unit 28 of the cleaning apparatus 12.

The cleaning apparatus 12, in the present example, is a walk-behind cleaning apparatus. The cleaning apparatus 12 is, in particular, a scrubber vaccum 30 for cleaning a floor surface 32.

It was already mentioned at the outset that the invention may also be used with cleaning apparatuses of a different type, for example sweeping machines, suction sweeping machines, jet cleaning appliances like high-pressure cleaning appliances or dry ice blasting appliances. It is favorable if the invention is applied to user-guided cleaning apparatuses (walk-behind and ride-on), which are guided by a user walking, standing, or sitting.

The cleaning apparatus 12 is used for cleaning the floor surface 32, which is presently considered to be oriented horizontally, wherein a contact plane of the cleaning apparatus 12 coincides with the plane of the floor surface 32. In its intended use, the cleaning apparatus 12 is moved in a working direction that is defined by the longitudinal direction 34. A transverse direction 36 of the cleaning apparatus 12 is defined transverse to the longitudinal direction 34.

The cleaning apparatus comprises on a rear side 38, in relation to the longitudinal direction 34, an operating unit 40 for the user walking therebehind. The operating unit 40 is arranged in the transition from the rear side 38 to a top side 42.

The cleaning apparatus 12 comprises a plurality of functional units 44 for performing a function. Operating instructions of the operating person on the operating unit 40 can be processed and transmitted to the functional units 44 by the control unit 28.

For example, a cleaning tool 46 that comprises a cleaning brush and, in particular, a plate brush 48 as well as a drive device 50 for the plate brush 48 is presently provided as a functional unit 44. Provided as a further functional unit 44 is a pressing device 52 with which a pressing force of the plate brush 48 against the floor surface 32 can be set.

Provided as further functional units 44 are a chassis 54 with a drive device 56 for moving the cleaning apparatus 12 over the floor surface 32 and a suction assembly 58 with which a mixture of dirt and cleaning liquid can be suctioned from the floor surface 32.

Further functional units 44 are a dosing device 60 with which the amount of cleaning liquid accommodated in a tank 62 for acting on the floor surface 32 can be dosed, as well as a cleaning agent dosing device 64 for dosing a cleaning chemical admixed to the cleaning liquid.

The tank 62 is formed by a housing 66 that comprises a housing part 68 at the top. The housing part 68 forms a lid 70 of the tank 62 and is mounted so as to be pivotable about a horizontal pivotal axis 72 presently extending in the transverse direction 36 (FIG. 3). For opening the tank 62, the lid 70 can be pivoted backwards about the pivotal axis 72 from a closed position into an open position (not shown) in the direction of the operating unit 40.

The operating unit 40 has a gripping device 74 for making it easier for a user to guide the cleaning apparatus 12. The gripping device 74 presently comprises two gripping elements 76. The gripping elements 76 are presently configured as stirrup-shaped longitudinal gripping elements, which are spaced at a distance from one another in the transverse direction 36.

The user can rest his/her hands 78 on the gripping elements 76 in the longitudinal direction without having to rotate the wrist in the transverse direction. The hands 78 thereby lie with the thenar eminence against the gripping elements 76, the thumbs 80 able to abut approximately from the base of the thumb 82 to the distal ends 84. This is depicted with the example of the operating unit 40 in the embodiment in accordance with FIGS. 8 and 9 and also applies to the embodiment in accordance with FIGS. 1 to 4.

In the transverse direction 36, a strip 86 is thereby defined between a connecting line, imagined in the transverse direction 36, of the distal ends 84 on the one side and the base of the thumbs 82 on the other side. This strip 86 is also depicted in FIG. 3.

The operating unit 40 presently comprises a plurality of operating elements, by way of which the user can interact with the cleaning apparatus 12, in particular for controlling the functional units 44.

In the transverse direction 36 laterally next to a respective gripping element 76, facing toward the respective other gripping element 76, the operating unit 40 comprises a rocker lever-shaped operating element 88. By way of the operating element 88, the chassis 54 can be acted on for setting the speed and/or the direction with which or in which the cleaning apparatus 12 travels.

Further, the operating unit 40 comprises an operating field 90 that preferably defines an operating plane 92 (FIG. 4). The operating plane 92 is arranged on the operating unit 40 facing toward the user and is inclined relative to the horizontal in the direction of the user. The inclination is e.g. about 20° to 30° and enables the user to more easily actuate operating elements arranged on the operating field 90.

Arranged in the operating field 90 is an operating element 94, presently a main operating element. The operating element 94 comprises a rotary grip 96 and serves as a main switch as well as program selector switch for the cleaning apparatus 12. By way of the operating element 94, different cleaning programs can be set, which differ from one another in the functioning of at least one of the functional units 44.

Moreover, further operating elements 98 are schematically depicted, as well as two operating elements 100. By way of the operating elements 100, values for operating parameters of at least one functional unit 44 can be incremented or decremented. For example, the rotational speed of the plate brush 48 can be increased or decreased or the contact pressure for the plate brush 48.

The operating unit 40 further comprises an integrated display device 102 installed in the operating field 90. Operational and status information of the cleaning apparatus 12 can be displayed on the display device 102 in order to facilitate the operation of said cleaning apparatus 12 for a user.

The accessories 16 that can be used with the cleaning apparatus 12 each comprise a display device 104, which in particular has an image display 106. The image display 106 defines an image plane.

In the present example, the accessories 16 are configured in flat design, which is advantageous for the invention but is not absolutely necessary.

The accessories 16 can enter into a communicative connection with the cleaning apparatus 12. In particular, data can be contactlessly exchanged between the accessories 16 and the communication unit 26. This is presently understood to mean that the data exchange itself takes place without physical contact. However, as explained in the following, in particular, there may be a physical contact of the accessory 16 itself with the operating unit 40.

Alternatively or in addition, provision may be made for data to be able to be transmitted between the communication unit 26 and the accessory 16 in a contact-based manner, for example by way of a wired connection not depicted in the drawing.

The cleaning apparatus 12 has a receptacle 108 arranged on the operating unit 40 for the accessory 16. The accessory 16 can be positioned in the receptacle 108 and thereby has a defined position relative to the operating unit 40. Depending on the size of the receptacle 108, a placement of the smartphone 18 and the tablet computer 20 with the image display 106 oriented in landscape format and/or in portrait format is possible. FIGS. 2 to 4 show the arrangement of the smartphone 18 with the image display 106 in landscape format, though the smartphone 18 could also be placed with the image display 106 in portrait format.

With respect to the tablet computer 20, the receptacle 108 is presently dimensioned such that the arrangement thereof with the image display 106 in portrait format is possible.

It is favorable if the receptacle 108 is dimensioned in such a way that accessories 16 with a width of at least about 15 cm, preferably up to about 25 cm and/or with a diagonal of the image display 106 up to at least about 10 inches can be accommodated.

The receptacle 108 is positioned in the transverse direction 36 between the gripping elements 76 and between the operating elements 88, with respect to a viewing direction of the user toward the receptacle 108 and in particular the image display 106 of the accessory 16 positioned in the receptacle 108. However, the receptacle 108 is arranged on the operating unit 40 offset in a direction away from the user relative to the gripping elements 76. This may presently be understood to mean that the receptacle 108 is arranged lower on the operating unit 40 (FIG. 4).

The receptacle 108 comprises an abutment element 110 that is presently configured as a bearing element 112. The bearing element 112 is of flat configuration and is planar so that the accessory 16 is able to abut thereagainst in surface to surface contact.

The receptacle 108 further comprises a shoulder 114 that is formed by way of a bar 116 formed projecting from the bearing element 112. This makes it possible for the accessory 16 to be arranged in a defined position in two spatial directions relative to the receptacle 108.

In the present case, the bearing element 112 is formed by a frictional coefficient-increasing element 120 or such a one is positioned in the receptacle 108. The frictional coefficient-increasing element 120 comprises, in particular, a mat 122 made of an elastically deformable material, for example a rubber material. By way of the mat 122, the accessory 16 is effectively protected from moving in the receptacle 108. In addition, vibrations during the operation of the cleaning apparatus 12 are dampened in order to largely avoid movements of the accessory 16 as a result of shaking.

The bearing element 112 defines an abutment and, in particular, bearing plane 124. In the case of the accessory 16 in flat design, the image plane of the image display 106 is oriented in parallel to the abutment plane 124 and has only small distance therefrom.

The abutment plane 124 is oriented at an angle 126 relative to the operating plane 92 (FIG. 4). The angle 126 is e.g. about 10° to 30°, for example about 20°. The abutment plane 124 is thereby inclined relative to the operating plane 92 in the direction of the user, thus making the image display 106 easier for the user to see.

The reference numeral 128 symbolizes a surface normal of the abutment element 110, said surface normal having e.g. an angle of about 45° relative to the horizontal. In this way, the image display 106 can be seen very well by most users, the viewing direction being oriented substantially perpendicular to the image display 106 (FIG. 5).

Provision may be made for the receptacle 108 to be movably arranged on the operating unit 40. For example, the receptacle 108 is pivotable relative to the operating unit 40 about a pivotal axis 130 extending in a transverse direction. A discrete or a continuous pivoting is possible, in particular the abutment element 110 being able to be pivoted with the shoulder 114. FIGS. 6 and 7 show an example of this for two further pivotal positions of the receptacle 108.

The orientation of the surface normal 128 is changed as a result of the pivoting. This makes it possible, for example, to orient the position of the accessory 16 in dependence on the size, the position, and/or the viewing direction of a user, such that said user always has a best possible view of the image display 106.

It is understood that the receptacle 108, which is not depicted in the drawing, could also be pivoted in the opposite direction, corresponding to the depictions in FIGS. 5 and 7, i.e. counterclockwise in FIGS. 5 to 7.

Overall, the accessory is arranged, at least partially, within the strip 86 and within the field of view of the user in order facilitate the view of the image display 106. During the operation of the cleaning apparatus 12, the user typically looks across the operating unit 40 and the lid 70, standing behind the same, such that the image display 106 can be always been seen well during the cleaning operation.

It is favorable if the accessory 16 is positioned on the operating unit 40 with an offset in relation to a gripping plane 132 defined by the gripping elements 76. The offset between the gripping plane 132 and the abutment plane 124 is e.g. about 10 cm to 15 cm. As a result of the offset, the likelihood is reduced that the user unintentionally comes into contact with the accessory 16, the accessory 16 being reliably arranged in the receptacle 108 even when the user is interacting with the operating unit 40.

The operating field 90 is arranged in front of the receptacle in the direction of the user. When interacting with the operating elements 94, 98, or 100, the likelihood is also reduced that the user unintentionally comes into contact with the accessory 16.

The receptacle 108 is arranged between legs 134 of the gripping elements 76, the legs 134 pointing in the direction of the respective other gripping element 76 and being arranged on the sides of the gripping elements 76 facing away from the user.

The receptacle 108 is preferably positioned on the operating unit 40 in such a way that the lid 70 adopting the open position is free of contact with the receptacle 108 and preferably free of contact with the accessory 16. This is favorably independent of whether the accessory 16 is positioned in the receptacle 108 with the image display 106 in landscape format or in portrait format.

The positioning of the accessory 16 in the receptacle 108 as well as the removal thereof is possible, in particular, manually and without tools. The accessory 16 is held sufficiently reliably in the receptacle 108 by way of frictional engagement, in particular by means of the mat 122, and positive engagement by way of the bearing element 112 and the shoulder 114.

For communicating with the cleaning apparatus 12, in particular the communication unit 26, the accessory 16 can enter into a communicative connection of different kinds. In particular, a Bluetooth connection may be used, though the invention is not limited to this.

A user application program is executably saved on the accessory 16, for example a so-called “App”. Display information relating to the operation of the cleaning apparatus 12 can be transmitted by way of the communication unit 26 to the accessory 16 and there be displayed, in particular using the App (FIG. 3).

Provision may thereby be made for the information displayable on the image display 106 to differ from the information that is displayed on the permanently installed display device 102. It is also conceivable for the information on the display devices 102 and 104 to complement one another.

In particular, provision may be made for the display device 102 to be deactivated when the accessory 16 is positioned in the receptacle 108. The presence of the accessory 16 may, for example, be detected contactlessly or in a contact-based manner. For example, a sensor element 136 is provided on the receptacle 108 for contactlessly detecting the accessory 16.

In a preferred embodiment, the display device 102 is deactivated when the user positions the accessory 16 in the receptacle 108. Display information is transmitted to the accessory 16 to be displayed on the image display 106. If the user removes the accessory 16 from the receptacle 108, no further transmission of display information occurs, and the display device 102 is controlled to display information.

By way of the permanently installed display device 102, it is ensured that visual information is displayed to the user even if he/she is not carrying an accessory 16.

By way of the user application program, an interface is provided for the user to interact with the cleaning apparatus 12. In a preferred embodiment, the user application program may provide e.g. digital operating elements, referenced as a whole with the reference numeral 138. In the present case, a digital variant of each of the operating elements 94, 98, and 100 is displayed on the display device 104. The display device 104 is touch-sensitively configured as a touchscreen, by means of which operating instructions of the user can be accepted by way of the accessory 16 and transmitted by the same to the communication unit 26.

The operating elements 138 are functionally identical to the operating elements 94, 98, and 100, such that the user can operate the cleaning apparatus 12 by means of the digital operating elements 138 without having to adjust his/her learned habits and abilities.

It is understood that the user application program, for the purpose of interacting with the cleaning apparatus 12, can provide the user different or further operating elements, for example menus, input fields, selection lists, toggles, etc.

In an advantageous embodiment of the cleaning apparatus in accordance with the invention, it is conceivable for the cleaning apparatus to not comprise a functionally identical, physical operating element relating to a digitally provided operating element 138 on the display device 104. Provision may be made for this to be the case for the majority or all operating elements of the operating unit 40, in the present case for example for operating elements 88, 94, 98, and 100.

It is also conceivable for a physical operating element of the operating unit 40 to be deactivated when the accessory 16 is positioned in the receptacle 108 and a corresponding digital operating element 138 is provided on the display device 104.

An authentication device 14 is required for the operation of the cleaning apparatus 12. An access authorization is provided to the cleaning apparatus 12 by way of the authentication device 14. Provision may be made for an emergency operation to be able to be performed with the cleaning apparatus 12 in the absence of an authentication device 14 or in the case of failed authentication.

In the present case, authentication devices 14 are present, which are configured as authorization means 140 in the form of electronic keys, specifically authorization means 140 a, 140 b, 140 c, and 140 d. The authorization means 140 are, in particular, transponders, which are able to contactlessly interact with the cleaning apparatus 12 by means of RFID technology.

Otherwise, in the scope of the present invention, a contactless interaction, for example by way of a different radio connection, and/or a contact-based interaction, for example by physically sensing an access authorization, may be provided.

For positioning an authorization means 140 in a defined manner, the cleaning apparatus 12 comprises a receptacle 142 arranged on the operating unit 40. The authorization means 140 can be releasably positioned in the receptacle 142 and preferably clampingly and/or latchingly fixed therein.

In the present case, an RFID reader 144 is provided, which is arranged within reach of the receptacle 142. When the authorization means 140 is located in the receptacle 142, the presence thereof can be detected by means of the RFID reader 144. For example, the RFID reader 144 repeatedly sends read pulses, which are received by the authorization means 140 when arranged in the receptacle 142 and can be replied to.

The authorization means 140 comprises a storage unit in which an access authorization, for example in the form of an ID or a code, is saved. The access authorization can be contactlessly detected by the RFID reader 144, transmitted to the control unit 28, and checked for validity by said control unit 28. If the result of the check is positive, the cleaning apparatus 12 is unlocked.

Alternatively, it is conceivable for unlocking information to be transmitted to the cleaning apparatus 12 in dependence on the access authorization. For example, the detected access authorization is transmitted via the communication unit 26 to the data processing device 22 and is checked for validity by said data processing device 22. If the result is positive, unlocking information for unlocking the cleaning apparatus 12 can be transmitted.

The authorization means 140 presently differ in that the access authorization is linked to different authorization profiles. For example, an authorization means 140 a is provided for users with a normal amount of experience and an authorization means 140 b for more experienced users. An authorization means 140 c is provided e.g. for overseers and an authorization means 140 d for administrators or service personnel.

In dependence on the authorization profile of the respective authorization means 140 a to 140 d, a different functional scope is provided to the user by the cleaning apparatus 12. In particular, the authorization profiles may be defined as authorization levels that are structured hierarchically.

The functional scope for a user with a normal amount of experience is typically smaller than for a more experienced user, and the functional scope accessible to that user not as wide as the functional scope provided to an overseer. The widest functional scope with the authorization means 140 d is provided for administrators.

Information on the authorization profile are stored e.g. in the storage unit of the authorization means 140, in the cleaning apparatus 12, and/or in the data processing device 22. Provision may be made for the respective authorization profile to be able to be determined solely by identifying the access authorization.

In addition, provision is made for user-individual user profiles to be provided in the cleaning system 10. Said user profiles are managed e.g. by way of user accounts that are saved, in particular, in the data processing device 22, alternatively or in addition in the accessory 16 and/or the cleaning apparatus 12.

For example, the user can log into his/her user account by way of the App of the accessory so that the user profile can be provided for the operation of the cleaning apparatus 12.

Provision may be made for the user to be able to connect to the cleaning apparatus 12 with his/her user profile by way of the accessory 16, though the startup (aside from the possible emergency operation mentioned above) is possible only once an authorization means 140 is used.

For example settings preferred by the user for functional units 44 are stored in the user profile, provided they can be made by the user. Alternatively or in addition, the user can define in the user profile, for example, which display information he/she would like to have displayed on the image display 106. The language of the image display 106 is preferably also saved in the user profile.

If the user profile is known, presettings can be made for the user of the functional units 44 in order to make it easier for the user to put the cleaning apparatus 12 into operation.

As mentioned, the functional scope that is provided to the user is defined by the authorization profile and therefore by the use of the respective authorization means 140 a to 140 d. The user can use the cleaning apparatus 12 within the extent of the functional scope, wherein in dependence on the authorization profile, for example:

-   -   access authorizations, user profiles, and/or authorization         profiles can be created or deleted;     -   an adaptation of user profiles and/or authorization profiles can         be performed, in particular regarding an unlocking of a         functional unit 44 for use and/or a presetting of at least one         functional unit 44 of the cleaning apparatus 12;     -   a report on the usage of the cleaning apparatus 12 can be         created and preferably transmitted to an external data         processing device 22;     -   usage data of the cleaning apparatus 12 can be evaluated.

Provision may thus be made for the user to have no access or only limited access to certain functional units 44. For example, the user can use functional units 44, the operating parameters of which do not change or change only within certain limits.

By using the authorization profiles, it can be ensured that the operational safety can be increased for the protection of the cleaning apparatus 12, the user, the object to be cleaned, or third parties, because the functional scope can be tailored to the abilities of the user, his/her trustworthiness, and the cleaning tasks that are to be performed.

In a concrete example, provision is made e.g. for the user with a normal amount of experience to be able to change the travel speed, the rotational speed of the plate brush 48, and the dosing via the dosing device 60 and/or the cleaning agent dosing device 64, wherein presettings can be providable and storable by way of the user profile. However, the normal user is subject, for example, to the limitation that the travel speed can only be changed within certain limits, and that another operating parameter, for example the contact pressure by way of the pressing device 52, is not able to be changed at all.

Changing the functional scopes that are linked to an authorization means 140 may be reserved e.g. for an overseer using the authorization means 140 c or an administrator using the authorization means 140 d.

Alternatively or in addition, the image content of the image display 106 may be different in dependence on the functional scope. For example, the display information differs regarding which authorization means 140 is used. Lower order authorization profiles obtain e.g. no access to certain menus or setting elements that are reserved for higher order authorization profiles.

Provision may be made, for example, for information about a consumable component to be displayed on the image display 106. Again depending on the authorization profile, provision may be made for the placing of an order, for example in the case of wear to a consumable component (e.g. the plate brush 48), to be reserved for users with a certain authorization profile. A user with a lower order authorization profile, however, is only able, for example, to forward information about the supply of a consumable component to be replaced.

The use of the user profiles and/or authorization profiles enables e.g. tracking which user or which group of users is using one or more cleaning apparatuses 12.

Cleaning tasks can be individualized and, for example, assigned to a particular user. Alternatively or in addition, the cleaning tasks may be assigned in dependence on an existing authorization profile, for example only to normal users or only to overseers. It should hereby be considered, for example, that the user is typically in possession of an authorization means 140 that corresponds to his/her actual authorization profile.

For example, in dependence on the authorization profile of the user, information can be transmitted to the accessory 16 and displayed on the image display 106. For example, the user is instructed to change or to check the cleaning tool 46, wherein this task, for example, should only be performed by experienced users or overseers.

FIG. 3a shows in a detail view in a manner corresponding to FIG. 3 a plan view of the operating unit 40 with a cleaning apparatus in accordance with the invention.

The receptacle 108 additionally comprises at least one holding element, preferably two holding elements 146, with which the accessory 16 can be held on the receptacle 108 even more reliably.

In the present case, the holding elements are configured as bars that have an angling (for example L-shaped) and project from the bearing element 112. An interspace 148 in the manner of a “compartment” is thereby formed between the bars and the bearing element 112. The accessory 16 can be slid into the interspace 148, presently from above.

In the case of vibrations that are transmitted to the accessory 16, the holding elements 146 ensure that the accessory 16 does not lift up and, in the worst case, fall out of the receptacle 108.

FIGS. 8 and 9 show in a manner corresponding to FIG. 3 the operating unit 40 of an advantageous embodiment, only partially depicted and designated with the reference numeral 150, of a cleaning apparatus in accordance with the invention, which could be used in a cleaning system in accordance with the invention together with the cleaning apparatus 12 or in place thereof.

Identical reference numerals are used for like or functionally equivalent features and components. This also applies to the following embodiments. The advantages that can be achieved with the cleaning apparatus 12 can also be achieved with the cleaning apparatus 150 as well as with the cleaning apparatuses discussed in the following. Only the most important differences are described.

In the cleaning apparatus 150, for example fewer operating elements are arranged on the operating field 90; only the operating element 94 is provided.

The receptacle 108 is arranged in the region of the operating field 90 above or behind the operating element 94. The accessory 16 in the form of the smartphone 18 is thereby arranged entirely or substantially entirely within the strip 86 both when the image display 106 is oriented in the landscape format as well as in the portrait format and thereby is easily visible in the field of view of the user (FIG. 8). The accessory 16 in the form of the tablet computer 20 is, for example, positioned mostly within the strip 86 when the image display 106 is oriented in the portrait format (FIG. 9).

The permanently integrated display device 102 is also provided in the case of the cleaning apparatus 150, and arranged in the region of the receptacle 108. Provision may be made, for example, in order to clear the view of the display device 102, for the mat 122 to be dimensioned smaller than in the case of the cleaning apparatus 12 or for the mat 122 to have a cutout.

When the accessory 16 is arranged in the receptacle 108, the display device 102 is covered by said accessory 16 and is deactivated. The user in this way concentrates his/her optical perception on the image display 106. When the accessory 16 is removed, view of the display device 102 is cleared and the same is activated to provide visual information for the user.

Schematically depicted in FIGS. 10 to 12 is in each case an operating unit 40 of a cleaning apparatus 152, 154 and 156, respectively, in accordance with the invention. In the case of the cleaning apparatuses 152 to 156, a respective charging device 158 is provided with which the accessory 16 is applied with electrical energy and the usage time thereof can thereby be increased.

In the case of the cleaning apparatus 152 in accordance with FIG. 10, the charging device 158 is of inductive configuration and is arranged on the side of the abutment element 110 facing away from the accessory 16. When the accessory 16 is arranged in the receptacle 108, the battery thereof can be charged.

The charging device 158 in the case of the cleaning apparatus 154 in accordance with FIG. 11 comprises at least one and preferably a plurality of fixedly arranged electrical connecting element(s) 160 (for example configured as a docking connector). The connecting element 160 can couple to a corresponding electrical connecting element of the accessory 16.

In the case of the cleaning apparatus 156 in accordance with FIG. 12, the charging device 158 comprises a charging cable 162 with connecting element 164 for connecting to the connecting element of the accessory 16. Provision may further be made for a connector socket 166 for connecting a charging cable to be present.

It is understood that a preferred embodiment of the cleaning apparatus in accordance with the invention may comprise two or more of the different variants of the charging device 158 described above.

A preferred embodiment, depicted in FIG. 13, of a cleaning system in accordance with the invention is designated with the reference numeral 170.

The data processing device 22 is omitted in the case of the cleaning system 170. User profiles are stored e.g. on the accessories 16 and/or in the cleaning apparatus 12. The authorization profiles are preferably saved on the authorization means 140 linked to the access authorizations.

A preferred embodiment, depicted in FIG. 14, of a cleaning system in accordance with the invention is designated with the reference numeral 180.

The authentication devices 14 in the form of the authorization means 140 are omitted in the cleaning system 180. Instead, the accessories 16 each form an authentication device 14.

For putting the cleaning apparatus 12 into operation, the access authorization can be inputted by the user on the accessory 16 via the app or it is determined in dependence on a user account. The access authorization may be transmitted to the cleaning apparatus 12 for unlocking. Alternatively, provision may be made for the access authorization to be transmitted to the data processing device 22 by way of a data connection and for a corresponding unlocking information to be transmitted directly or indirectly to the cleaning apparatus 12 by said data processing device 22.

The user profiles and the authorization profiles may be saved in the cleaning apparatus 12, in the accessory 16, and/or in the data processing device 22. In particular, there is preferably a link between the access authorization and the user profile and the authorization profile.

If an access authorization is detected to be valid, the cleaning apparatus 12 can be switched on, the functions allowed for by the corresponding authorization profile being able to be performed. User-defined settings can be loaded e.g. by way of the user profile.

In the case of the cleaning system 180, authorization profiles can be managed e.g. by way of the user application program of an accessory 16. While in the case of the cleaning system 10 and 170 the authorization profile is defined by the respective authorization means 140 a to 140 d, this makes it possible in the case of the cleaning system 180 for user profiles, in particular hierarchical user levels, to be more easily and more flexibly managed.

Conversely, by using the authorization means 140, the required expenditure required for managing authorization profiles on the software level can be saved. This may be advantageous, for example, if there are high fluctuations in the users of the cleaning apparatus 12.

A preferred embodiment, depicted in FIG. 15, of a cleaning system in accordance with the invention is designated with the reference numeral 190.

As in the case of the cleaning system 170, the data processing device 22 is omitted in the cleaning system 190. As in the case of the cleaning system 180, the authentication devices 14 in the form of the authorization means 140 are omitted. In all other respects, the cleaning system 190 corresponds to the cleaning system 180 without the property that data can be exchanged between the external data processing device 22 and the cleaning apparatus 12 and/or the accessories 16.

REFERENCE NUMERAL LIST

-   10 cleaning system -   12 cleaning apparatus -   14 authentication device -   16 accessory -   18 smartphone -   20 tablet computer -   22 data processing device -   24 Cloud -   26 communication unit -   28 control unit -   30 scrubber-dryer machine -   32 floor surface -   34 longitudinal direction -   36 transverse direction -   38 rear side -   40 operating unit -   42 top side -   44 functional unit -   46 cleaning tool -   48 plate brush -   50 drive device -   52 pressing device -   54 chassis -   56 drive device -   58 suction assembly -   60 dosing device -   62 tank -   64 cleaning agent dosing device -   66 housing -   68 housing part -   70 lid -   72 pivotal axis -   74 gripping device -   76 gripping element -   78 hand -   80 thumb -   82 base of the thumb -   84 distal end -   86 strip -   88 operating element -   90 operating field -   92 operating plane -   94 operating element -   96 rotary grip -   98 operating element -   100 operating element -   102 display device -   104 display device -   106 image display -   108 receptacle -   110 abutment element -   112 bearing element -   114 shoulder -   116 bar -   120 frictional coefficient-increasing element -   122 mat -   124 abutment plane -   126 angle -   128 surface normal -   130 pivotal axis -   132 gripping plane -   134 arm -   136 sensor element -   138 operating element -   140 authorization means (140 a to 140 d) -   142 receptacle -   144 RFID reader -   146 holding element -   148 interspace -   150, 152, 154, 156 cleaning apparatus -   158 charging device -   160 connecting element -   162 charging cable -   164 connecting element -   166 connector socket -   170, 180, 190 cleaning system 

1. A cleaning apparatus, comprising at least one cleaning tool for cleaning an object to be cleaned, an operating unit for a user, which comprises at least one operating element for operating the cleaning apparatus, a control unit for processing operating instructions, a receptacle, arranged on the operating unit, for an external accessory adapted to be associated with the cleaning apparatus and that has a display device with an image display, wherein the accessory is removably positionable in the receptacle in a defined position, as well as a communication unit by way of which display information for being displayed on the image display are transmittable from the cleaning apparatus to the accessory positioned in the receptacle.
 2. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein the receptacle comprises or forms at least one abutment element against which the accessory abuts.
 3. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 2, wherein the abutment element is of at least one of flat and planar configuration.
 4. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein the receptacle comprises or forms a shoulder for abutting the accessory.
 5. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein the receptacle defines an abutment plane that encloses an angle with the horizontal of about 0° to 90°.
 6. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein the receptacle is arranged or arrangable on the operating unit in such a way that the image display of the accessory positioned in the receptacle defines an image plane substantially perpendicular to the viewing direction of the user.
 7. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein a surface normal of an abutment plane defined by the receptacle, is oriented in a vertical plane.
 8. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein the receptacle comprises at least one frictional coefficient-increasing element against which the accessory is able to abut, or wherein such a frictional coefficient-increasing element is arranged on the receptacle.
 9. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein the receptacle is configured to be movable relative to the operating unit for changing a viewing angle of the user on the image display.
 10. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 9, wherein the receptacle is adjustable over an angular range of at least about 45°.
 11. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein the cleaning apparatus comprises a housing that, in relation to a longitudinal direction of the cleaning apparatus, has a movable housing part arranged in front of the operating unit, said housing part being pivotable from a closed position in the direction of the operating unit into an open position and vice versa, and wherein the housing part in the open position is positioned free of contact with at least one of the receptacle and the accessory positioned therein.
 12. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein the operating unit comprises a gripping device for the user with two gripping elements arranged at a distance from one another.
 13. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 12, wherein the gripping elements define a gripping plane and wherein an abutment plane defined by the receptacle defines an angle of less than about 20° with the gripping plane.
 14. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 12, wherein the receptacle is arranged on the operating unit offset in a direction away from the user relative to the gripping elements.
 15. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 14, wherein the offset of the receptacle is about 5 cm to 20 cm.
 16. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 12, wherein the receptacle, in relation to a transverse direction of the cleaning apparatus, is arranged between the gripping elements, in a viewing direction of the user toward the image display of the accessory arranged in the receptacle.
 17. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 16, wherein an operating element for acting on a chassis of the cleaning apparatus is arranged laterally next to a respective gripping element, and wherein the receptacle is arranged between the operating elements in relation to the transverse direction.
 18. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 12, wherein the gripping elements are configured as longitudinal gripping elements and the receptacle, when the hands of the user are placed with the thenar eminence against the gripping elements, is arranged substantially in a region between the base of the thumbs and the distal ends of the thumbs.
 19. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein the operating unit comprises at least one operating element that is arranged in front of the user in relation to the receptacle.
 20. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 19, wherein the operating element is a program selector switch for setting a cleaning program of the cleaning apparatus.
 21. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein the operating unit comprises an operating field, defining an operating plane, on which at least one operating element is arranged, and wherein the operating plane is arranged in front of the receptacle in relation to the user.
 22. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein the receptacle is configured for the arrangement of accessories having at least one of the following: having a width of at least about 15 cm; having a diagonal of the image display up to at least about 10 inches.
 23. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein the operating unit, in relation to a longitudinal direction of the cleaning apparatus, is arranged on the rear side of said cleaning apparatus.
 24. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein the cleaning apparatus comprises a charging device for providing electrical energy for the accessory, and wherein the accessory is able to be applied with electrical energy when arranged in the receptacle.
 25. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 24, wherein the charging device is an inductive charging device for contactlessly acting on the accessory.
 26. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 24, wherein the charging device comprises at least one of the following: at least one electrical connecting element that is fixedly arranged on the receptacle and that couples to a corresponding electrical connecting element of the accessory; a connector socket for connecting a charging cable for the accessory; a charging cable with a connecting element for connecting to an electrical connecting element of the accessory.
 27. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein the cleaning apparatus comprises an integrated display device, arranged on the operating unit, for displaying status information.
 28. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 27, wherein the display device is at least partially covered by the accessory when same is arranged in the receptacle.
 29. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 27, wherein the display device is switched off when the accessory is arranged in the receptacle and is activatable or activated when the accessory is removed from the receptacle.
 30. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein the communication unit is configured to transmit display information in a contact-based or contactless manner.
 31. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein the communication unit is automatically activated to transmit the display information upon the accessory being positioned in the receptacle and/or is automatically deactivated upon the accessory being removed from the receptacle.
 32. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein display information relating to at least one of the following is transmittable to the accessory: information relating to the use of at least one cleaning tool; information relating to the consumption, the supply, or the state of at least one consumable component used for the operation; information relating to at least one of an elapsed usage time an a remaining usage time of the cleaning apparatus; information relating to at least one of a preceding usage type and a remaining usage type of the cleaning apparatus; instructions for the user for assisting in cleaning.
 33. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein at least one of status information and operational information relating to the operation of the cleaning apparatus is transmittable by the communication unit to the accessory for at least one of storage and forwarding to an external data processing device.
 34. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein the cleaning apparatus is operable without a separate authentication device, or wherein an authentication device is required to operate the cleaning apparatus.
 35. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein an emergency cleaning operation is performable with the cleaning apparatus in the absence of an authentication device or a valid authentication.
 36. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein associated with the cleaning apparatus is at least one authentication device, by means of which an access authorization required for the operation of the cleaning apparatus is providable to the same.
 37. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 36, wherein the access authorization of the cleaning apparatus is transmittable contactlessly or in a contact-based manner.
 38. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 36, wherein the cleaning apparatus comprises a receptacle in which the authentication device is releasably arrangable.
 39. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 36, wherein the access authorization is saved in a storage unit or physically stored on the authentication device.
 40. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 36, wherein the access authorization is inputtable by the user on the authentication device by means of an input device and is transmittable to the cleaning apparatus.
 41. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 34, wherein the accessory comprises or forms an authentication device.
 42. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 34, wherein an authorization means formed separate from the accessory comprises or forms an authentication device.
 43. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 42, wherein the authorization means is configured as a transponder.
 44. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 44, wherein a user profile is provided.
 45. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 45, wherein an authorization profile is provided, wherein two or more different authorization profiles are provided, wherein different functional scopes are providable to a user by the cleaning apparatus in dependence on the authorization profile.
 46. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 44, wherein a least one of a user profile and authorization profile is/are associated with the access authorization.
 47. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 45, wherein hierarchical authorization levels are provided.
 48. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 45, wherein at least one of the user profile and authorization profile: is stored or saved in or on the authentication device; is saved in a storage unit of the cleaning apparatus; is saved in a storage unit of a data processing device arranged externally to the cleaning apparatus, wherein by means of at least one of the authentication device and the cleaning apparatus, a data connection to the data processing device being establishable for reading out and transmitting at least one of the the user profile and the authorization profile directly or indirectly to the cleaning apparatus.
 49. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 45, wherein in dependence on the user profile display information with corresponding image contents are providable to the image display; a presetting of at least one functional unit of the cleaning apparatus is performed.
 50. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 45, wherein in dependence on the authorization profile at least one of access authorizations, user profiles, and authorization profiles are created or deleted; at least one of an adaptation of user profiles and of authorization profiles are performed; a report on the usage of the cleaning apparatus are created; usage data of the cleaning apparatus are evaluated.
 51. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein the cleaning apparatus is a floor cleaning apparatus.
 52. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein the cleaning apparatus is a hand-guided cleaning apparatus or a ride-on or stand-on cleaning apparatus.
 53. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein the cleaning apparatus is configured as a self-propelled and self-steering cleaning apparatus.
 54. The cleaning apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein the cleaning apparatus is a cleaning apparatus that cleans with a cleaning jet.
 55. A cleaning system, comprising a cleaning apparatus and at least one external accessory, the cleaning apparatus comprising at least one cleaning tool for cleaning an object to be cleaned, an operating unit for a user, which comprises at least one operating element for operating the cleaning apparatus, a control unit for processing operating instructions, a receptacle, arranged on the operating unit, for the at least one accessory adapted to be associated with the cleaning apparatus and that has a display device with an image display, wherein the at least one accessory is removably positionable in the receptacle in a defined position, the cleaning apparatus further comprising a communication unit by way of which display information for being displayed on the image display are transmittable from the cleaning apparatus to the at least one accessory positioned in the receptacle.
 56. The cleaning system in accordance with claim 55, wherein the accessory is a smartphone or a tablet computer, and/or wherein the accessory comprises a touch-sensitive display device for accepting operating instructions of the user.
 57. The cleaning system in accordance with claim 55, wherein executably saved on the accessory is a user application program by way of which operating instructions for the cleaning apparatus are providable by the user, wherein the operating instructions are transmittable from the accessory to the communication unit.
 58. The cleaning system in accordance with claim 57, wherein the operating instructions comprise at least one of the following: settings of at least one operating parameter of a functional unit of the cleaning apparatus; at least one of creating and changing access authorizations, user profiles, and authorization profiles for users.
 59. The cleaning system in accordance with claim 57, wherein by way of the user application program, at least one digital operating element is providable on the display device for accepting operating instructions.
 60. The cleaning system in accordance with claim 55, wherein by way of the user application program, at least one digital operating element is providable on the display device for accepting operating instructions, wherein the operating unit comprises no corresponding physical functionally identical operating element.
 61. The cleaning system in accordance with claim 55, wherein by way of at least one of the accessory and the communication unit, a communicative connection with an externally arranged data processing device is established.
 62. A cleaning system, comprising a cleaning apparatus and at least one authentication device by way of which an access authorization is providable to the cleaning apparatus, the cleaning apparatus comprising at least one cleaning tool for cleaning an object to be cleaned, an operating unit for a user, which comprises at least one operating element for operating the cleaning apparatus, a control unit for processing operating instructions, a receptacle, arranged on the operating unit, for an external accessory that is adapted to be associated with the cleaning apparatus and that has a display device with an image display, wherein the accessory is removably positionable in the receptacle in a defined position, as well as a communication unit by way of which display information for being displayed on the image display are transmittable from the cleaning apparatus to the accessory positioned in the receptacle. 